As a military veteran and the father of a decorated Navy SEAL, I understand first-hand the importance of maintaining a strong, robust national defense - for without this every other liberty is threatened. Our military must be second to none and fully prepared at all times to defend the United States and our interests abroad. Proper training and equipping of our military is critical as a deterrent and to ensure that when our troops are called into action they have superiority on the battlefield.

The sequestration cuts that were allowed to take effect over the past several years must be reversed as they are threatening readiness and our ability to secure America’s freedoms. Along with a stronger commitment to funding our military needs, we must also eliminate all waste and mismanagement within the Department of Defense. It is the federal government’s responsibility to ensure that every dollar spent on national security is for the good of our troops and the taxpayers.